The Spirit of Christmas will depart 20 December for a magical evening of celebration aboard the only evening vintage steam train departing London this season.

Passengers will be transported to a bygone era of Christmas past as they are welcomed onto festively decorated vintage carriages for a five hour round trip amidst the twinkling lights of the capital as the train makes its way out through Berkshire and Wiltshire before returning to Paddington.

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There will be four classes of travel available, including a new elevated Pullman Dining class, The Helicon Club. Pullman Dining, First Class and Premium Standard are also available.

Guests in The Helicon Club, limited to just 42 guests, will start their evening in the stylish Hippocrene Bar (below), which strikes the perfect balance of history and contemporary spirit, accommodated in the beautifully restored Bar Car 6708, Mt Helicon. Guests can mingle and enjoy bespoke entertainment, whilst delighting in an intoxicating prelude of Champagne and canapés before being escorted to their sumptuously appointed dining carriage, for the evening’s repast.

Liveried stewards will attend to their every whim as they savour each morsel of the delectable four-course Pullman Dining carte du jour including a Great British Cheeseboard, paired with a bottle of wine per couple from our sommelier’s selection, at tables laid with crisp linen, and embellished with fine crockery, fresh flowers, and glassware.  Created with a pastiche of seasonal delicacies, the menu is artfully created on-board by executive chef Nicholas Allen and his culinary team.

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After dinner passengers can make their way back to the Hippocrene Bar to wind down with a digestif and freshly brewed coffee before disembarking.  Dress code includes a jacket and tie, and cocktail attire.

Pullman Style Dining passengers will travel in style, aboard festively bedecked vintage carriages that have been meticulously restored and appointed with plush interiors, elegant armchair seating, beautiful wood panelling and period details. Guests will experience the highest levels of service and comfort as they are served Champagne on arrival, followed by a sumptuous four-course seasonal menu a cheeseboard, and a bottle of wine per couple, at tables laid with crisp linen, and embellished with fine crockery, fresh flowers, and glassware.

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Guests in First Class will be welcomed onboard with a glass of sparkling wine as they settle into comfortably appointed carriages with cushioned seating. Each guest will receive a snack box to enjoy on this special journey along with tea and coffee.

Premium Standard passengers will be seated in a restored period carriage with large picture windows, offering excellent views of the evening skyline. Complimentary tea and coffee will be available.

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Guests travelling in First Class and Premium Standard can visit the train’s beautifully restored buffet car with a choice of Champagne, wine, beer, spirits, and a range of nibbles on hand to purchase. These guests are welcome to bring their own picnics on-board.

For more Experiences click here.